Driveline Working Angles Measurement

Driveline Working Angles Measurement

Special Tools

J 23498-A Driveshaft Inclinometer

The working angle of a U-joint is formed by the difference between the angles of two shafts that intersect.

* No working angle should not be equal to zero. An angle of 0 degrees will cause premature U-joint wear due to a lack of rotation of the needle bearings in the U-joint.
* Always orientate the J 23498-A so that it faces the same side of the vehicle for each measurement taken.
* Be sure to accurately record the measurements taken.

Measurement Procedure

1. Raise and support the vehicle; ensure that the rear wheels are free to rotate. Suspension travel will not affect the driveline angles on this vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle (Service and Repair) in General Information.
2. Place the transmission in NEUTRAL.
3. Clean any corrosion or foreign material from the U-joint bearing caps.
4. Rotate the propeller shafts to align the rear propeller shaft yoke flanges vertically.
5. Install the J 23498-A to the lower U-joint bearing cap of the rear propeller shaft yoke.
6. Measure and record the angle of the rear propeller shaft on the J 23498-A .
7. Rotate the propeller shafts to align the front propeller shaft yoke flanges vertically.
8. Install the J 23498-A to the lower U-joint bearing cap of the front propeller shaft yoke.
9. Measure and record the angle of the front propeller shaft on the J 23498-A .
10. Calculate the working angle at the intersection of the two shafts.
Subtract the smaller number from the larger to obtain the working angle.
11. Compare the calculated working angle to the working angle specification.

Maximum U-joint working angle: 0.75 degrees

12. If the calculated working angle exceeds the specification, then the angle requires adjustment.
13. If the calculated working angle is 1/2 degree or less, then the angle requires adjustment.